Meet the Person Behind the Lens

My name is Jillian Kraus — my journey with photography began long before I had a business or camera of my own.

As a kid, I’d take pictures on my parents’ phones or an old digital camera, and one year I was gifted a polaroid camera that quickly became one of my favorite things. Once I had my own phone, I was always taking pictures — of sunsets, trees, vacations, and myself with friends. I’d often print the photos out for scrapbooks or to tape up on my bedroom walls. I have just always really enjoyed documenting my life through taking photos. Although I didn’t always know it at the time, I was capturing moments not just to look at, but to remember how they felt.

Growing Up Around Photography

Photography has always been personal for me. My dad is a professional photographer with his own successful business, and growing up, there was pretty much always a camera around — and often pointed at my siblings and I! As much as I didn’t always love being in front of the lens, looking back now, I really appreciate it all and am so glad I have the photos to remember my childhood by. They are a great reminder of how important it is to document life as it happens — even the small, seemingly ordinary moments, because it all moves so quickly.

My experience growing up around photography has shaped how I approach every session. I know what it’s like to feel awkward, insecure, and unsure in front of a camera, which is why I do everything I can to make each session feel relaxed, encouraging, and supportive. I will help guide you through poses when you need it, but I also use natural prompts to bring out the candid moments — the little in-betweens that often become the most treasured photos.

Working with Kids

Outside of photography, another huge part of my life has always been working with children. I have three siblings, two of them being younger, and right from the start I took my role as big sister very seriously, and still do today. My love for nurturing and teaching kids started young — from through playing with baby dolls to then becoming a mother’s helper at 13, and later a babysitter and part-time nanny. I have built long-lasting relationships with many local families, and it has been one of my greatest joys getting to help these kids learn and grow. In addition to babysitting and nannying, I have worked at a local Pleasantville preschool for the past four summers, and am now returning for my fifth!

My background has been invaluable to my photography. I know how unpredictable working with children can be, and I embrace it. I don’t expect kids to sit still or smile on command, and I never let a less-than-cooperative moment stress me out, I find the best approach to to taking photos of kids is to let them take the lead, doing my best to meet every child where they are, making space for their energy, their shyness, or their silly moods.

What Guides Me

I am currently a college student at SUNY Oswego studying Human Development, with plans to pursue a master’s in counseling. My education has given me deeper insight into people — how we grow, relate, and communicate — which influences the way I photograph and connect with my clients. I believe empathy, patience, and curiosity are some of my greatest strengths, both as a photographer and as a person.

So, what began as a creative outlet has grown into a true passion for documenting connection, emotion, and the beauty of life. I specialize in portrait photography, including families, couples, children and infants, and individuals. I also love photographing pets and animals, nature, and even the occasional sports game when the opportunity arises.

Whether you’re hoping to document a particular chapter or simply want to freeze a moment in time, I’m here to help create a warm, easygoing experience that feels authentic and full of joy — with photos you’ll want to hold onto forever.